Giving Thanks

For gifts that won’t always be with me:
like sharing a meal in my childhood home,
taking Mom’s phone call,
hearing those molasses moving bodies that emerge from the hall,
receiving a “k” text within seconds,
making lunches, picking up, dropping off.

For gifts that are waning:
like hugs, health, family dinners.

For gifts that are dreams to others: 
like having a job with expectations and rewards,
paying my bills,
coming home.

For words:
    “Just get your work done. I’ll take care of it.”
“I’ve got a ride.” 
    “Wanna grab a coffee?”
“Good night.” 
    “Good morning.” 
        “Thank you.”
“She enjoys your class.” 
    “He likes mythology.”
“Hel-lo. It’s only Mom.”
    “We’ve missed you.”
“Stay strong.”
    “I’m glad you’re here.”
        “Are you writing?”

For challenges that keep me humble and motivated.
For successes that keep me grateful and inspired.
For prayers answered.
For prayers rejected.
For prayer.

For life. 
For the people in it 
who have held my hand and allowed me to hold theirs.
I am thankful.